As I mentioned in one of my articles, my favorite wine at last year's Pittsburgh Wine Festival was a red from Chile -- the 2001 Casa Lapostolle Clos Apalta.

It just so happens that the Wine Spectator's top choice for red wines and its No. 2-rated wine overall for 2004 was the same 2001 Casa Lapostolle Clos Apalta.

The point that I want to make is that our choice does not make us right; it just means that the Wine Spectator and I agree. Selecting a wine for your enjoyment is a matter of personal preference.

People do have different taste preferences. Some people like young and bold red wines, while others may enjoy a mellow wine with considerable bottle age. Some like rich fruit flavors in red wines as opposed to a variety of earthy components.

If you like a certain style of wine, then that style is the right choice for you.

RECOMMENDED

VERY GOOD (85-89)

2003 Vionta Single Vineyard Albarino -- Spain ($18.99, PLCB Specialty 26176):

I have been impressed recently with the albarino white wines from Spain, and the new release from Vionta is a beauty. The wine opens with aromas of lemon blossom, citrus and pear. The initial impression on the palate is crisp, which advances into some sweet honey and pear flavors. Match with pan-seared Guinea hen with a white wine reduction.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

OUTSTANDING (90-94)

2001 Turnbull Cabernet Sauvignon -- Napa Valley ($34.99, PLCB Specialty 15200):

The 2001 vintage is proving to be outstanding for cabernet sauvignon wines from Napa Valley. The 2001 Turnbull was my favorite wine at a recent tasting and opens with classic aromas of cassis and blackberry fruit with rich oak. The flavors of cassis and spicy oak are complex with a touch of mint in the finish. The price of this wine represents good value given the fact that many cabernet sauvignon wines of this quality are in the $50 to $100 range. Enjoy with a grilled Prime New York strip steak.

2003 Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Moulin-A-Vent Domaine Des Rosiers ($14.49, PLCB Specialty 19412):

The 2003 vintage for Beaujolais wines was blessed with sunshine that produced ripe wines with great extract of flavors. The Duboeuf Domaine Des Rosiers is impressive with aromas that leap from the glass with black and red cherry components. The rich red and black cherry fruit flavors are complemented with candied spices in the finish. This is not your typical Beaujolais wine. Serve with grilled veal chop with a Beaujolais wine glaze.